6 components coveredField manual · Freezer
GE FCM16 / FCM22 manual-defrost chest freezers (FCM16DLWW, FCM16SLWW, FCM22DLWW): quick sheet
Covers: GE 15.6-15.7 cu ft (FCM16DLWW, FCM16SLWW) and 21.6-21.7 cu ft (FCM22DLWW) manual-defrost chest freezers covered by GE owner's manual 49-1000372 (Rev. 1, 2019). Spec sheets date from 2017-2018; GE's product page says the FCM22DLWW is no longer manufactured. Rating label: right side of the cabinet above the machine compartment cover (GE manual). The 7 cu ft FCM7 has its own sheet. Search terms: GE FCM16DLWW, FCM22DLWW not freezing, GE chest freezer red light, GE chest freezer drain plug, GE garage ready chest freezer.
Garage-rated chest freezers with a coin-slot dial (Cold to Coldest), an LED interior light and, on the DL models, a three-light status panel (green power, red high temperature, yellow alarm memory) with an audible alarm and reset button. The FCM16SL is a simpler version with a high-temperature light and 2 baskets. They use isobutane (R600a), so frost scraping and any work near the tubing need extra care.
Safety first
- Flammable refrigerant (isobutane, R600a): no metal or sharp tools on the frost, no electric heaters or hair dryers inside, keep flames away; sealed-system work only by EPA 608 certified technicians trained for flammable refrigerants.
- Unplug before defrosting, cleaning or repairs; the control panel cannot cut power to the cabinet.
- Grounded 3-prong outlet only; no adapter or extension cord.
- Hinge springs are under tension and the lid is heavy.
- Before scrapping, take the lid off (child entrapment) and follow federal and local disposal rules for flammable refrigerant and foam.
- Keep the lock key away from children.
How it works
The dial is a thermostat: turning it toward Coldest lowers the cut-in point. GE says to start at the midpoint between Cold and Coldest and run 6 to 8 hours before loading.
On DL models the red light comes on when the cabinet stays above about 23 F for 60 minutes and goes off below about 20 F; the yellow light then flashes until someone presses Alarm Reset. A flashing yellow with no red means there was a power loss while nobody was there (GE manual).
Heat leaves through condenser tubing behind the outer skin; GE says the outer walls can run up to about 30 F warmer than the room.
Defrost is manual through a two-part drain: an outside plug at the front base and an inside plug in the floor.
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Always confirm values against the tech sheet for the exact model.
OnCall Tech is a reference tool for trained technicians and can make mistakes. Always disconnect power and confirm with the manufacturer's documentation before you work. © 2026 OnCall Tech. Original content; not a reproduction of any manufacturer document.Generic part photos (not of this brand): Open chest freezer with wire baskets full of frozen food by Tiefkuehlfan, CC BY-SA 3.0
